Question: Is my research design or working paper good enough to submit?

Answer: Yes! Be sure to note in your submission if the paper is not yet completed.  That will not be a problem though.  There will be many students at different stages of work.  Some panels will be organized as ‘working paper panels’ or ’round tables’ that give students a chance to workshop ongoing projects and early research ideas. However you should submit enough of a project that getting feedback on it is beneficial to you.

Question: How many papers can I submit? 

Answer: You can submit up to 2 (two) papers. 

Question: Should I prepare a presentation for the panels?

Answer: Yes, we recommend participants to prepare slides and be able to present their research for 10-15 minutes (depending on the number of papers in each panel). 

Question: What is the schedule for the conference?

Answer: The program will be released in January, but events and a rough schedule are posted on the Program page.

 Question: What else will there be other than my panel?

Answer: In addition to your own panel there will be numerous other panels with presentations by your peers from different institutions.  The program will also feature a few new types of events this year that include: a methods cafe at which you will be able to discuss research methods with faculty and senior graduate students; expert panels, which will include a faculty member discussing developments and new topics in their fields; a teaching workshop at which a faculty member will discuss novel practices in political science pedagogy.  Of course there will be plenty of opportunities to network with other students and meet faculty.

Question: What should I wear?

Answer: The general dress code for attendees is to achieve a professional look. ASOPS recommends attendees to dress business casual. This suggests a combination of pantsuit, dress slacks, blazers, cardigans, and collared shirts or blouses.

Question: What kind of presentation will I give?

Answer: Presentations will be conducted in standard conference format.  You will have the option of using slides (PPT, PDF,…) if you want.

Question: How long are panel presentations?

Answer: Each panel is 75 minutes. Depending on the number of presenters in each panel, panel chairs can give 10 (5 presenter panel), 12 (4 presenter panel), or 15 (3 presenter panel) minutes to each presenter. We recommend practicing for 10 minutes to present, and chairs can enforce a hard cut-off at 12 minutes. If you are not sure, feel free to contact us.

Question: Can I talk to faculty about my research if they are not my discussant?

Answer: Yes, it is encouraged. Have a short description of your research prepared, so you can easily answer questions.  If there is a faculty member you wish to meet with more in-depth, we recommend getting in touch with them by email first and setting up a time to meet.

Question: Can I attend if I am not participating?

Answer: Yes! Again it is encouraged.  In addition to getting to ask questions, meet peers, and network, you will be able to attend the Keynote Lecture. – TO ATTEND THE KEYNOTE LECTURE, YOU MUST SIGN IN AT THE CONFERENCE.